Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 April 2019
568. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the status of the review of the pilot scheme of the social welfare scheme for artists; when the review findings will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15296/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe pilot initiative to assist self-employed visual artists and writers who apply to my Department for jobseekers allowance was launched in June 2017. The initiative, which is a commitment under the Creative Ireland Programme, is a collaboration between the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and what is now the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DCHG), with the support and advice of the Arts Council. The Pilot acknowledges the status of self-employed professional artists and writers who are in receipt of a jobseeker's allowance and gives them a 12 month window to focus on building up their work before they are subject to labour market activation provided by my Department. Applicants must satisfy all of the other qualifying conditions of the pilot initiative including a means test.
A commitment was given to review the scheme which my Department is currently undertaking. I expect this review to be completed shortly and its findings will inform any further decisions on the future of this pilot.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
